portable storage

Extra Space For Lawn Goodies: Choosing A Storage Shed

When you're using nice equipment, it's important to take care of it. If you've landed here in need of a storage shed for things like your lawn mower or general lawn goods, this is the right place. Below is an in-depth article about some frequently asked questions about storing similar items and possible consequences.

What Types Of Storage Sheds Are Out There?

To break it down, there are really three different types of material to compare when looking at a shed:

Wood Shed

Wooden sheds have been around for a very long time and are generally the "traditional" approach. For those looking to create their own shed plan, build it from scratch, or follow a pre-made plan, you might consider this option.

With the options of things like customizing and not having to worry about a pre-defined size, some might think this is the way to go.

Take a look at the below advantages and disadvantages for a wood lawn mower shed.

Good

Highly customizable

Not limited by size/shape

Paintable

Add things like windows

Not So Good

Possible unfinished interior

Typically more expensive

Wood is vulnerable material

Needs repainted over time

Some areas of the country might not be the best suitable environment for a wood shed simply because of the amount of insects, harsh weather, or excess amounts of water. These things are detrimental to a shed.

Resin Shed

Sometimes these sheds may be known as a plastic or vinyl shed. The material is some type of plastic (usually a high-density polyethylene) and in a high quality form or another when different terms are used.

Good

Lighter than wood

Stronger & more durable

Virtually maintenance free

Easy to setup

Not So Good

Doesn't support as much weight

Cannot be painted

Cannot be shingled

A big plus for resin sheds is that they come in neutral colors, look very nice, and many have a textured look to stand out.

There's also many accessories including windows and shelves which require no cutting or additional "construction" work to be added.

Metal Shed

Most metal sheds are made with one of two types of metal: steel or aluminum. The aluminum is usually galvanized to protect it in weather - but does not always prevent rusting.

Good

Cheapest option

Can be painted

Easy to setup

Lightweight

Not So Good

Not as strong as wood or resin

Easily dented or rust

Less size/shape options

Complicated setup

Also important to note: metal sheds may be prone to leaking if not properly sealed. This is an important factor to consider if storing items in the shed that need to be kept dry.

Are Most Outdoor Sheds Waterproof?

The great thing about the newer plastic sheds (also known as resin sheds) is that they are becoming more designed with a pitched roof and angle to allow run-off of water around the outside.

One aspect to be aware of is that having a shed can be very advantageous.

Why does this matter?

Having items in the garage like pesticides, oil, chemicals, power tools, mowers, and other lawn equipment or items is extremely dangerous for kids that will be in that area. I think you'll agree that the best way to prevent mishaps is to not let the whatever-will-cause-the-mishap to be present.

How Are Storage Sheds Measured?

When looking to buy a storage shed, the dimensions will be in feet. Many common sizes include: 8x8, 10x12, 12x10.

Companies typically stick with the even numbers of sizes simply because this is usually how materials are found. For example, if you are using plywood to build a shed, they come in 4x8 sheets. It's easier to build, if for example, a wood shed's interior is being constructed.

Here's a great article on how to calculate materials needed for a shed. It goes over finding building codes, the need for different types of items (nails, trim, etc.).

Who Can Move A Storage Shed?

Here's the deal.

Once a storage shed is built, it's not very easy to move it. Especially if you've purchased a miniature barn! But, there are alternatives that you might consider.

One option is to get a smaller, portable split-lid storage shed (more like a bin). This would be much easier to move given you might be the type that craves change around the yard.

What Is The Best Foundation To Use?

Some of the sheds that can be purchased will not even require a special foundation. It depends on what is out in your yard currently.

One thing to remember is that as you get ready to build the shed, or have it placed on the lawn, having an un-level surface can potentially cause the shed to move around and lose it's stability. This is definitely not something you want to have happen, so it's appropriate to say that laying a foundation is the recommended method. Although in some cases it's not required, it's still a great idea and technically "the right way".

Do you have level ground? Is there an existing slab you might be able to use (i.e. from a previous structure)?

Ideas for a solid foundation include:

Pavers

Concrete Slab

Kit that comes w/shed

Gravel

However, if you are required to create a foundation for your storage shed, it must be leveled and in a good place where you have clearance from water and moisture damage. A good guideline to keep in mind is to have three feet around the outside of the shed - this is space for things like fences, other buildings, or equipment that may not be going into the shed.

How Does The Shed Get Leveled?

When using concrete as a foundation, you'll be able to follow the concrete installation instructions and properly level it before placing the shed on the slab.

If you're using something like wood, make sure to properly align and account for any overlaps, proper flooring, and the possibility of surrounding bushes or plants growing roots below the surface. In some cases, you'll want to inset the foundation in the ground, other scenarios may call for the foundation to be raised above ground.

Where’s The Best Place To Put A Storage Shed?

A couple of things you will want to keep in mind when choosing the proper location for a shed is power and lighting. If you don't have the chance to install a skylight in the shed, it will be hard to see inside without some type of light.

Also, if you plan to maybe use power tools down the road, it's certainly going to be helpful if you can have an outlet to plug directly into without having to track around an extension cable for power. Unless of course, you're one of the people using an electric lawn mower with cordless batteries.

Is Buying A Storage Shed A Good Investment?

This can be looked at a couple of ways.

First, let's consider the obvious. What happens when you DON'T have a storage shed? Well, your lawn equipment, tools, gas, and many other things you own sit outside on the lawn.

Some of you might be saying, "I put all of my stuff in the garage". But, is it worth your garage smelling like gas if you've got a riding lawn mower, a push mower, oil, and other items in their with it? Maybe it's worth it, maybe not.

Another thought - how much room might you have for a vehicle? Something to think about.

When Do Storage Sheds Go On S﻿ale?Typically toward then end of summer and early fall, you can usually see prices start to lower a bit with clearance or other sales. These are the times when the stores are starting to clear out inventory and get prepared to start bringing in winter items.

Quick Tip: a lot of people don't know this, but at Lowes, you can negotiate price if you talk to the right person. Consider talking to a manager or someone who actually cares about your business. Many times they can take off $10-$20 just because you negotiate.

What Type Of Shed Should I Buy?

There are a few factors to consider when answering this question. A big question to yourself is - am I trying to store something like a zero turn mower? Otherwise, one of the smaller options will work.

It does come along with personal preference as well. Are you the traditional type of person who likes to see natural wood? Do you enjoy painting? Do you need to meet a budget? Questions like these will help you to decide which storage shed might be right for you.

If you'd like to compare some sheds right now, go ahead and check out storage sheds on Amazon﻿﻿. It's a great place to see the types available along with comparisons and fast shipping.

Summary and Thoughts

Whether you're searching for a lawn mower storage shed, something to store lawn goods, or just an extra shed in addition to one you already own, keep in mind the above questions. It will help when deciding which shed to buy.

I find that a good way to think about this type of purchase is to consider what's inside. If you're storing a couple thousand dollars worth of stuff, shouldn't there be a long term thought process involved?